"I came here to express the support and solidarity of the American people and the American government to residents of Ashdod, residents of the south, and all Israelis who must deal with the burden of rocket and missile fire daily on Israel's civilian population," Shapiro said.

The ambassador condemned the firing of rockets and missiles by Hamas and other terrorist organizations in Gaza, adding that "we support one hundred percent Israel's right to defend itself."

Mayor Lasry updated Shapiro on the municipality's plans to help residents cope with the difficult situation in which they are located.

Later, the Ambassador visited the mayor in the situation room and the municipal office in Ashdod, and was briefed on emergency procedures during the rocket fire.

After the tour in Ashdod, Ambassador Shapiro visited the resident of Ashdod, Ilan Salomon, who was hospitalized in Belinson Hospital after he was badly wounded by a rocket striking a gas station last week.

Dr. Eran Halperin, CEO of the Medical Center, welcomed Shapiro; Shapiro spoke with the patient briefly and wished him a speedy recovery.